[cryptome] Re: Looks like DHS sabotaged a FOIA request on Cryptome

From: Michael Best <themikebest@xxxxxxxxx>

To: cryptome <cryptome@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>

Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2016 16:11:18 -0500

That's nothing as far as BS rejections go for not being specific enough
about the records requested. I requested a FBI from FBI, gave them the name
and number of it... and they said it wasn't enough to go on.

The explanation I finally found buried in there was that the request was
too broad, and that I should specify the subject matter, a time period and
a location. I mean, the request basically did all three of those so the
rejection was completely wrong, but what they cited exists... it's just
kinda like trying to cite justifiable homicide law for torturing someone.
It exists, but doesn't apply.

Unfortunately because of the way it was buried, it took me until after the
appeal period had passed so I can't appeal. I'll have to file a fresh FOIA
with them and be more vigilant, because transparency can suck it I guess.

Hi Mike,
Do they have the right to close an FOIA request arbitrarily, without a
reason? If so, do you know where such a regulation or law is, or where it
could be found...or is it an administrative procedure. Is it possible for
you to ask them to point your nose to the provision in law which grants
them this right?
ATB
Dougie.

Sent through MuckRock on December 1, acknowledged on December 2. Also
closed on December 2, according to the DHS FOIA website. No notification or
explanation provided, not through MuckRock or to me directly. I say to me
directly because they also closed another FOIA of mine without explanation,
insisting on opening a new one when I tried to follow up within the 30 days.